We attended an excellent and lively performance by the Hippo Theatre Group at Ora Theatre — a show that made us recall the definition of theatre given by the Spanish playwright Lope de Vega, according to whom, "theatre is three planks, two actors, and one passion."
In this case, however, the performance "FOUTOURIA" features three performers: Fotis Dousos, Christiana Kandilioti, and Alexandros Raptis.

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These three actors transport us to the land of Foutouria in the year 2999, through a playful, engaging script written by Nikos Tsiotsos and the Hippo group — a script that transcends the usual limitations often found in children’s theatre.

The lyrics of the songs were also outstanding — finally, songs with meaning! This is a performance addressed both to children and adults.

What made the show particularly captivating was the group’s directorial cleverness and the refined, inspired movement (choreographed by Haris Pehlivanidis and Eleni Vaka). If it’s true, as they say, that a successful actor is one who makes you see what they see and look where they point, then the fact that nearly all the children turned around to see the "trees" at the back of the theatre is a major achievement.

Personally, I saw the sea, the turtle, and the prison — without any sets. They created the most fascinating scenic environments purely through performance, full of dynamic transformations.

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The music by Paris Fragkos and the Hippo group not only fit perfectly within the spirit of the show but was also lively and offered a fresh alternative for children's theatre — far beyond the typical sugary or overly sweet songs.

The costumes by Katerina Chatzopoulou were functional and elegant in their simplicity.

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After the performance, there was a short theatrical game session designed by Kalliopi Fykari in collaboration with the Hippo Theatre Group, during which the children participated with tremendous enthusiasm.

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In conclusion, I believe it’s well worth paying attention to the Hippo Theatre Group and the productions they stage, as they offer a different and heartfelt approach to children's theatre — one crafted with true passion and care.